Why United Planet?

What We Believe

“Individually, we are one drop. Together, we are an ocean.” – Ryunosuke Satoro

We believe that human beings can create a global community, one relationship at a time. We help make that happen for people who are committed to a vision of the world that emphasizes community over conflict … collaboration and cooperation over disagreement and strife … the unity of humankind.

Let’s be honest – this is not an easy task. But United Planet is a non-profit organization that is working toward that goal. And we do everything we can to help our volunteers succeed: we don’t just drop someone off in the middle of nowhere and hope for the best. Every Quest is custom-designed based on the goals of the participant. Every community we serve is supported by United Planet staff. And every experience is immersive, comprehensive, and authentic. Changing the world is not a spectator sport – you need to get your hands dirty, and so do we.

Who We Are

The people at United Planet are driven by our mission, to unite the planet one relationship at a time. That may sound lofty to some, but it’s not. We are people who genuinely and fervently believe that we can make a difference.

Sure, we laugh, we eat lunch, we disagree sometimes. But we are passionately committed to our cause. We are multilingual, multinational, global. Many of us have experience with stepping outside our comfort zone to gain a new perspective, and we want to help others do the same. We believe in empathy, service, and most of all, the value of every person. If you spend 5 minutes in our office, or on the phone, you’ll know – this is an organization where people care.

Sound like a team you want to join and a mission you want to contribute to? Find out about our open positions and Work for Us.

What do our volunteers say about us?

My Quest was an amazing and eye-opening experience that has changed my perspectives on social responsibility and intercultural exchange. This was the first trip that I have taken that I felt truly immersed in the culture of the country.

Richard, United Planet volunteer

United Planet has provided me with an experience that changed my life. The staff were kind, supportive, and encouraging throughout my whole trip. They have helped me to become a lifelong partner in global connection and international outreach. There are no words to describe my appreciation and gratitude.

Lindsay, United Planet volunteer

United Planet gave me the opportunity to find a home away from home in Cusco, working with children and meeting people through my Spanish school. […] I am finding that I brought a bit of Cusco back with me in how I now interact with the world.

Emily, United Planet volunteer

My Quest taught me that life is beautiful, and you need to cherish every moment.

Alyssa, United Planet volunteer

United Planet has helped me connect more with my Chinese roots and led me to mature in my own life by introducing me to students with whom I’ve forged connections that transcended age and background.

Michelle, United Planet volunteer

My Quest was one of the most horizon-expanding experiences of my life to date.

Have questions? We’re here for you. We’d love to help.

About Us

United Planet is a non-profit organization with a mission – to create a global community, one relationship at a time. We connect volunteers who want to make a difference with communities in 35 countries, where they learn, teach, work, engage and immerse themselves in a culture outside their comfort zone. For many, it’s the most fulfilling experience of their lives.